Codenames: Board Game Buying Guide and Spin-Offs

Codenames: A Comprehensive Guide to the Word-Association Party Game

Codenames' simple rules and quick playtime have made it a popular party game. Unlike many games limiting player numbers, Codenames excels with four or more. Beyond the original, several versions cater to different group sizes and preferences. While each iteration shares a similar core, variations exist in player count, theme, and age appropriateness.

The Core Game: Codenames

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Two teams compete, each with a Spymaster providing one-word clues to identify their agents (codenames) on a 5x5 grid. The challenge lies in crafting clues that only guide your team, avoiding the assassin card which results in an immediate loss. Spymasters determine the number of codenames their team attempts to guess, balancing risk and reward. Optimal play involves four or more players.

Codenames Spin-offs: Expanding the Gameplay

Codenames: Duet

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player version. Players alternate as Spymasters, using clues to identify 15 agents while avoiding assassin cards. Includes 200 new cards compatible with the base game.

Codenames: Pictures

• MSRP: $24.95 USD
• Age: 10+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

Replaces words with images, offering broader descriptive possibilities and potentially lowering the age requirement. Compatible with the original game's word cards.

Codenames: Disney Family Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 8+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: Varies

A Disney-themed version using words and images from Disney films. Offers a simplified 4x4 grid mode without an assassin card for younger players.

Codenames: Marvel Edition

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 9+
• Players: 2-8
• Playtime: 15 mins

A Marvel-themed version featuring words and images from the Marvel universe. Teams are represented by S.H.I.E.L.D. and HYDRA. Plays like the base game or Codenames: Pictures.

Codenames: Harry Potter

• MSRP: $24.99 USD
• Age: 11+
• Players: 2
• Playtime: 15 mins

A cooperative two-player game based on the Harry Potter universe, using words and images.

XXL Versions: Larger Cards for Easier Visibility

Codenames: XXL, Codenames: Duet XXL, and Codenames: Pictures XXL offer the same gameplay as their standard counterparts but with larger cards.

Online Play: Codenames Online

A free online version allows for remote play with friends.

Discontinued Versions: Noteworthy Mentions

Codenames: Deep Undercover (adult-themed) and Codenames: The Simpsons Family Edition are no longer in print but may be available secondhand.

Conclusion

Codenames is a versatile party game suitable for various group sizes and ages. With its numerous versions, there's a Codenames experience for everyone. Remember to check for deals online!